Inspired by the graceful flight of a manta ray through the ocean, the Tuuci Manta Shade (2001) offers protection from the sun without obstructing the view. In addition to being inspired by the ocean, designer Dougan Clarke spent a decade working with sails, rigging and boat design. A consummate sailor, he knows what stands up to salty, wet environments. Modeled after the mechanics of a sailboat's rigging, the Tuuci Manta uses a racing cam cleat and pulley system to raise and lower the platform. Easy to use and maintenance free, the stainless steel components are easily replaceable and come with a three-year limited warranty. "I sought to re-define what was previously known as an 'umbrella,'" says Clarke. "The resulting shade sculptures embody both form and function." Pair the Manta with our Stationary Stand, available in two sizes, or the Mobile Stand, made from concrete-filled aluminum with a Tuff-Wheel™ extension for easy maneuverability. Made in U.S.A.

Inspired by the graceful flight of a manta ray through the ocean, the Tuuci Manta Shade (2001) offers protection from the sun without obstructing the view. In addition to being inspired by the ocean, designer Dougan Clarke spent a decade working with sails, rigging and boat design. A consummate sailor, he knows what stands up to salty, wet environments. Modeled after the mechanics of a sailboat's rigging, the Tuuci Manta uses a racing cam cleat and pulley system to raise and lower the platform. Easy to use and maintenance free, the stainless steel components are easily replaceable and come with a three-year limited warranty. "I sought to re-define what was previously known as an 'umbrella,'" says Clarke. "The resulting shade sculptures embody both form and function." Pair the Manta with our Stationary Stand, available in two sizes, or the Mobile Stand, made from concrete-filled aluminum with a Tuff-Wheel™ extension for easy maneuverability. Made in U.S.A.

Born and raised in Coral Gables, Florida, Dougan Clarke's upbringing by the ocean has informed his approach to design. "Nature," says Clarke, "in all its wondrous forms and raw beauty, has inspired me through the years and brought me endless joy." Self-taught, Clarke spent 10 years in the marine manufacturing industry, where he gained an expert's understanding of the materials and engineering needed to withstand the corrosive effects of the sea, salt and sun. He combined that with his experience in leisure furnishings to launch Tuuci ("The Ultimate Umbrella Company, Inc.") in 1998.

Clarke says that the goal of Tuuci is to "complement the comfort and accessibility of natural environments through shade architecture." His aim was nothing less than to "redefine what was previously known as an 'umbrella."... Read more >